In a vacuum, all objects fall at the same acceleration. This is a fundamental principle of physics. The acceleration due to gravity is constant for all objects, regardless of their mass or shape.
However, in the real world, air resistance plays a significant role. This is why a feather falls slower than a bowling ball.
Here's how it works:
* Air resistance: Air resistance is a force that opposes the motion of an object through the air. It depends on factors like the object's shape, size, and speed.
* Less air resistance: An object with less air resistance experiences less of this opposing force.
* Greater acceleration: Since there's less force slowing it down, the object accelerates faster.
Therefore, the statement "In free fall the object with less air resistance falls a greater acceleration" is generally true.
Example:
* A feather has a large surface area and a light weight, leading to significant air resistance.
* A bowling ball has a smaller surface area and a heavier weight, resulting in less air resistance.
* If you drop both from the same height, the bowling ball will fall faster due to less air resistance.
Important Note:
Even though an object with less air resistance falls faster, its *acceleration* due to gravity remains the same (approximately 9.8 m/s²). It's the *net acceleration* (taking air resistance into account) that is greater.